There’s something special about oranges and basil when they are paired together.
One of my very first kitchen creations as a teen, I remember, was an orange-basil salsa I crafted with fresh basil from our family garden.
THAT concoction alone may have sealed the deal with my love and adoration for creativity in the kitchen.

The aromatic blend of the two components are absolutely intoxicating.

Thus, with some fresh basil from my own garden this year, I whipped up some orange basil sweet potato mash, along with a little sweet ground pork. You’ll be amazed…I promise.

Just a touch of balsamic vinegar with the orange and basil adds depth and one more dimension of flavor. You’ll see.

Orange Basil Sweet Potatoes & Pork

1 large sweet potato, peeled, cubed and baked
juice and zest of 1 orange, divided
3 Tbs. fresh basil, divided
sea salt and pepper
1 Tbs. coconut oil
3/4 lbs. pastured ground pork
2 Tbs. balsamic vinegar

Combine the sweet potato, half the orange juice and zest, 1 Tbs. basil, plenty of sea salt, and coconut oil in the basin of a food processor. Whir and whip until smooth.

Meanwhile, brown the pork over medium heat in a medium skillet, breaking up large pieces with the back of a wooden spoon or spatula. Just as the fat is rendering, season liberally with salt and pepper, and add the remaining orange juice and zest. Continue cooking until most of the “juice” has evaporated. Stir in balsamic vinegar and fresh basil. Cook 3-4 minutes longer.

Serve the pork over the sweet potato, drizzling with extra balsamic, if desired, and garnishing with fresh oranges wedges and basil leaves.